How do you all check out an owner?

[sersee05]

I had one come in that I am looking at called disney discount condo. Although whenever discount is in the name it scares me.haha. The owner Ryndaks place is listed on Windsor Hills rents and it looks nice. But since it's from there, I can't find reviews . I know anyone can write a review but I always like to do my research.

I had another one in paradise palms where I have been talking to the lady for an hour through email...i feel like I know her! Just weird coincidences. i love her place , it just might be a little high on the rent. I feel fine with her though I guess because I developed a little relationship.


I also have a tug member that I am tempted to rent from at the Vistana. But i have never done it and it's nerve-wracking. No one wants to spend hard earned money and have a dump!

 

[momof2n2]

I've rented six times in Kissimmee area and a bunch of times other areas (TN, NC, VA). I've never had a problem. I don't have some special formula for gauging the owners. It was all based on rates and communication style. I know that doesn't do much to help you, but I've only had good experiences.

 

[katallo]

Momof2n2 is correct. We have used VRBO and Homeaway in various locations. Never had a problem. I look at reviews but also think you get a "feel" about the person when communicating. I guess it's the gut instinct. I also look at the number of posts, how many comments etc.

 

[Ametista]

If someone responds right away, is professional and helpful, then I would go with that person. I have also booked many places/locations through Homeaway and VRBO and never had a problem. The only exception was a slow, barely responsive person in Indian Rocks Beach who also ended up being slow/barely-responsive about getting my deposit back. It took 6 weeks. But they were like that throughout the process.

 

[kidd_freeper]

I believe Windsor Hills is in Osceola County.

Check out if they are up to date on their tax payments here:
https://www.osceola.county-taxes.com/public

 

[got4boys]

For the timeshares and homes, if they are in the Orlando area, you can verify by typing in the last name and first name of the owner in the Orange County web site - where deeds are recorded.

http://or.occompt.com/recorder/web/?

For Kissimmee

http://services.osceola.org/OnlineS...cords_public_search.cfm?ref=www.osceola.org:1

The only flaw on this one would be Bonnet Creek. An owner of Wyndham Vacation Club Points from another home resort (outside of Orlando area) can book into Bonnet Creek.

I found these two sites very useful.

 

[Sunshine25]

It's difficult to form a relationship with someone you will never meet and will only communicate for a short period of time- how do you trust them with your money? I get that, but think of it as a business transaction. Yes you are renting from someone rather than a large company, however, it's still a business and licensed as such, and owners are bound by the same laws as every other business you give your money to.

My advice is to book through a reputable site such as VRBO/Homeaway, Flipkey & read the reviews, if there are complaints of money not being refunded, then stay away. Ask away - how long did it take to get responses back? Do they have a social media page - are they engaging their audience? I think all of this is telling of how your transaction will go. Also, make sure you have a written contract/Rental Agreement.

As an owner, I make sure all my communication is professional, I respond right away (within the hour) as I always have my smartphone on hand, and try to be as helpful as I can. My guests are happy

Go with your gut, if you feel comfortable, you should be fine.

 

[sersee05]

Thanks all! I think going with your gut is the right move. There is one person I have been dealing with. Everything is booked for my last minute vacay..so it may not happen

But there is a condo in reunion. I told him he was too much $$ for me and he wants to work with me...but he has a salesman kind of mentality. Its the best! You won't be disappointed! Are you going to do it? Look at my reviews! He has a lot of good reviews,but something is making me not want to book.